Control device



W. B. JONES CONTROL DEVICE March 13, 1934.

Filed March 30, 1927 .2 D E Rel @EB E Ek Patented Mar. 13, i934 CONTRGL DEVGE W. Bartlett Jones, Chicago, Ill.

Appli ation March 30, 1927, Serial No. 179,528

32 @latins The present invention relates generally to control systems and in particular to a device the operation of which is controlled by power changes in a single circuit to eiiect a secondary control by the controlled action of the device.

The control system which is the subject ci this invention may involve a travelling element and one object oi' the invention is to control the travel of such an element so as to arrest the same in a selected position i'or a variety of purposes, such for example, as the operation of electric switches, either during the travel oi the element, or when the element is arrested in a selected position or both.

A particular object of the invention is to control the element by the manipulation ci a single switch or other means in such a manner that effective power changes produced, tor example, by the opening or closing oi a circuit, will determine the operation of the travelling element. "in such a case, the particular eiect to be desired is not dependent absolutely upon the open or closed condition of the circuit, but only in part upon this condition and in part upon the immediately prevailing condition of the travelling element.

As an example of the desirability oi' employing such a device tl .ere is given the following general description ci its use in connection with electric lighting. The voperations which may thus be eiiected by a travelling element are the manipulations of lamp switches disposed in the path oi the element. For example, 'there are many places, particularly in halls, or in living rooms or dining rooms or" homes, where an overhead electrolier is provided with a plurality or" lamps, ranging generally from three to six in number. For such electroliers there may or may not be a remotely located control switch, as in a wall near a door. Such electroiiers frequently pro-- vided with individual lamp socket switches. It is common practice ior people to diminish the lights in number, either for economy, or for convenience and accommodation. Such action usually involves operation of the socket switches; and this is tedious, and, for some people, or under some conditions, it is impossible. And again, socket switches are sometimes lacking, in which instance it is common practice to loosen the bulb in the socket, thereby to eiect a switch action.

The present invention aims to overcome all these inconveniences, and permits one to control the number oi lamps merely by the operation oi a single switch: either the wall switch, or a switch in the electrolier, or both. The device of the invention is therefore preferably designed to be (Cl. Nil-97) placed within an electrolier, or otherwise in close association with one. The individual lamp circuits oi the electrolier are divided and distributed through switches associated with the device oi' the invention. These switches are arranged preferably operation by the travelling element above alluded to, and this element in turn is controlled by a single switch as aforesaid. ln using such a device, that by installing such a device in an electrolier that already in place and Wired `I`or a single cir t, it is not necessary in any way to disturb tne existing installation except to divide the lamp circuits inside the electrolier for distribution through the added equipment.

Furthermore, some electroliers are wired with two circuits controlled from a wall location, by means oi` which two diierent groups of lights may be controlled from a single point. In such cases, the present invention may be employed exactly as it is installed in single circuit systems, with additional advantages in operation brought about by the existence of a third wire to the electrolier.

Not only does the invention permit of controlling the lights individually from a remotely located switch, but it also permits of the same and ci an improved control from a point more directly associated with the electrolier. The direct and remote control are not mutually exclusive and can be operated in conjunction with each other.

In one example of using the device, a person may enter a room and snap on the lights in the ordinary manner at the wall switch. Assume that there is a table light in this room which is connected into one of the outlets of the overhead electrolier. The table lamp is immediately lighted when the wall switch is snapped on, but the other lights are at first dark, and then they appear one at a time in a predetermined seo uence. li the operator desires but three lights overhead out of a possible ve, the last two may be prevented trom lighting by a momentary break in the table lamp circuit inmediately following the lighting of the. third overhead lamp. The break may also be made at the wall switch if desired, in which instance (if it is a single circuit electrolier) all the lights will iiicker during the instant of the break. However, if it is a two circuit electrolier, it is immaterial at which switch the momentary break is made. The status of the lighting, thus determined, will remain as long as desired. Then ii a person should desire to reduce the number of lights, even to the point of extinguishing all oi them, he need but to open the table lamp circuit by its local socket switch, which act will set the device of the invention into operation to extinguish the lamps one at a time in the reverse sequence. When the desired number have been extinguished, the table lamp may then be turned on, and the sequential extinguishing action will cease. This action may again be repeated until only the table lamp remains lighted. At all times the lamps may be extinguished in the ordinary way by operation of the wall switch. Such normal extinguishing will automaticaly prepare the device for sequen* tial illumination of the lamps as rst described.

The results to be obtained from the use of the device of this invention are dependent upon the character of controllable devices, switches, wiring arrangements, etc., with which it is cornbined. Accordingly, the present invention involves not only a control system but also a control device, and the device in combination with a variety of controllable elements, particularly electric circuits and switches.

In order to illustrate the invention and to explain the nature of the same, I have shown in the 'j accompanying drawing a simple mechanical device which permits of a ready description of the features which characterize this particular embodiment of a control device. Although the illustrated embodiment is perhaps not the best ,practical mechanical embodiment of the invention, it is purposely designed and illustrated in an expanded layout, rather than in a more desirable compact and commercial form, in order to facilitate an understanding of the same by reference to the drawing.

Fig. 1 illustrates a plan view of an illustrative device with an electric circuit of an electrolier, rewired for combination with the parts of the invention. The full lines illustrate the device in j normal 01T position, while the dotted lines indicate positions assumed by some of the moving parts, following the initial and normal closing of the electrolier circuit.

Fig. 2 represents the device of Fig. 1 with the control element of the invention at rest in an intermediate position, with three out of seven lamps extinguished, and the device in position to move in a direction to open the circuits of the remaining lamps upon any break in the circuit containing the control switch.

Fig. 3 is a detail view in elevation of a part of the device, specifically, the extension on the head of the plunger.

Fig. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of two electroliers, each equipped with a device of the present example, and that other structures, a1-

ternative arrangements, optional devices and a variety of combinations may be employed according to the particular result to be effected. Accordingly, the present disclosure and description l are not to be construed as limitations of the invention short of the scope of the appended claims.

In the device of the drawing there is a power operated switch actuator which receives its power from a main source l0. Because of the relatively low power required for this device, it is connected in series with a resistance provided by the lamp A, and this is preferably one of the lamps to be controlled in the combination now being described. A switch l1 of any ordinary type for a single circuit is connected in series with the actuator and the lamp. The switch 11 is herein represented as being remotely located, as in a wall, and is hereinafter referred to as the wall switch, the control switch, or the primary control switch, as circumstances may justify. The electrolier, which is represented generally by the lamps and lamp circuits, has six other lamps in the present instance, designated B, C, D, E, F and G. The mechanistic device is preferably incorporated in the electrolier, so that Fig. 1 includes only the essential parts of the device, of the electrolier and of its circuits.

The power operated switch actuator involves a solenoid P to be energized and de-energized so as to effect a control of a plurality of switches b, c, d, e, f and g, associated respectively with the aforesaid lamps, not including lamp A. The association of the switches is such that each controls but one lamp in the present embodiment. With this arrangement, successive operation of these secondary switches, as they are termed hereinafter, will cause the lamps to be controlled in sequence. The parts are so related that all the lamps may be lighted by a sweeping movement of a travelling element past the secondary switches in one direction, and extinguished by a like action in the reverse direction. Any type of switch may be employed which is suitable for use with the switch operator which is employed. In the present instance the switch operator is a finger 12 carried on the arm 13 which sweeps over a given path. This path is an arc resulting from the pivotal mounting at 14 of the arm 13. The switches are desirably of the snap type variety, which are audible when operated, although this is but one desired feature of the snap type for a particular type of operation as will be explained hereinafter. Each switch is represented as having a forked arm 15, the two portions of which are so arranged that they provide at all times an obstruction in the path of the controlling finger 12. In Fig. l the finger 12 is positioned to move to the left, or, as it is termed throughout this description, to move forwardly. In its motion forward it will throw all the switch levers 15 so as to light the lamps. In Fig. 2 the finger l2 is in a position for motion to the right, or rearwardly, having opened switches b, c and d and being in position to open switches e, f and g. From the foregoing it is clear that a controlled travel of the finger 12 will effect a control of the lamps B. C, D E, F and G, and that the light A is under the direct control of the switch 11. lllh remainder of the mechanism is designed to place the finger 12 under the control of the primary switch, thus to effect a dependent control of the secondary switches.

The initial control of the swinging arm 13 is eifected by a plunger 16 responsive to the energization of the solenoid P. The plunger moves the arm 13 positively in one direction, but not in the opposite direction. The arm 13 is normally retracted to the right and away from the solenoid by a spring 17. The spring 17 serves an important purpose in acting also as a power reservoir and as means to return arm 13 to initial position. The plunger 16 is normally withdrawn from the solenoid to its rearmost position by a spring 18. In Fig. 1 the parts occupy their normal positions as represented by the full lines. The plunger is provided with a head 19 which engages the rear side of arm 13, chiefly to carry the arm 13 4forwardly as the plunger is drawn into the solenoid P. The forward motion will cause successive lighting of the lamps.

In order to time the sequence of lig ting and extinguishing the lamps, the speed of the forward and the rearward motion of the arm 13 is controlled. A timing or motion retarding device is employed which permits independent variation of the forward and the rearward speeds. Thus, either forward or rearward motion may be made to take place rapidly if desired. The retarding or timing means is herein represented as a bleeding piston-and-cylinder device. A cylinder 2G is open at one end and provided at the other with a bleeding head 2i through which slides a piston rod 22, bearing a piston head 23. An adjustable bleeder valve 24 is placed in the cylinder head 21. A flap 25 covers the outside opening of the valve 24. In the piston head there is also an adjustable bleeder Valve comprising a flap valve 26 over a port 27. The flap is freely movable to cover the port in compressing air in the cylinder, making the other bleeder Valve 24 effective as a re tarding means. A screw 28 turning in the head 23 passes freely through the iiap 26 and at its free end is provided with a retaining means or head 29 to engage the flap. The adjustment of the screw will regulate the extent to which the flap may be opened to expose the port 27 on forward motion of the arm 13. By this construction each bleeder valve is independently operable and adjustable, so that motion in each direction can be timed independently. The special construction of the piston head Valve permits rapid forward motion when the flap 26 is free to open inwardly to a large extent ior rapid illumination.

The plunger 16 as aforesaid carries the arm 1S ahead of it upon closing the wall switch l1, and the lamps are lighted in succession over a time period determined by the adjustment of the retarding means. Upon completion of the forward .stroke there is desired an automatic return or withdrawal of the plunger irrespective of the opening of the wall switch 11 to deenergize the solenoid. Likewise it is desired that the arm 13 be held in the position to which it has been advanced by the plunger.

The return of the plunger is preferably effected by de-energization of the solenoid P. Automatic out-out means is provided for this purpose, and not only is it arranged to de-energize the solenoid at the end of the forward stroke, but it is also arranged again to energize the solenoid at the end of the rearward stroke, so that it will again be drawn forward. A reciprocation of the plunger is not desired, so that there is brought into action means which will prevent reciprocation by automatic action of the cut-out means. This preventive means so acts that a complete second stroke cannot occur, and the plunger is stopped only after a partial second forward stroke has been made. Such means has the function of a detent, indicated at D in the drawing, which holds the plunger against the drawing action of the solenoid.

The cut-out means above referred to includes a short-circuiting switch for the solenoid. The solenoid circuit may be traced in the drawing from the switch 11 through wire 30 to the solenoid P, thence by wire 31 to the lamp A, and back to the source 10. Wires 32 and 33 lead from the two solenoid connections to the short-circuiting means. The latter is a snap-type switch having a slide bar 34 as an operating member to be moved by the plunger at the end of each stroke. The bar 34 operates in suitable guides 35, and at the ends carries parts 36 and 37 adapted to be engaged by the head 19 of the plunger near the ends of the forward and rearward strokes respectively. A Contact arm 38 is pivoted at 39 near the bar 34.

A spring 40 connects the contact arm 38 and the bar 34 so that motion of the bar carries the spring from one side of a line through the pivot 39 to the other, thus to effect the snap action of the switch. When the bar 34 is moved to the left (Fig. 1, dotted line position 33a and dotted line plunger head position 19a) the contact arm 38 is moved to pos n 33e, closing the circuit 32 This short-arcuting action de-energizes the solenoid so that spring 1S retracts the plunger. 0n retraction it meets the slide-bar part 37 in position 327e, then moves the slide bar 34 rearwardly to open the switch. This again energizes the solenoid and the plunger is drawn forward. This second stroke is not completed because of the detent means D above mentioned. At this point it is proper to emphasize the fact that the solenoid is energized and holds the plunger against the detent means in opposition to the spring i3. De-energizing the solenoid permits the plunger to be returned by spring 18. Since the slide bar 34 cannot be operated by the plunger except at the end of the stroke, the only manner of tie-energizing the solenoid among the parts described is by operation of the wall switch 11. Thus, the plunger is responsive to opening of the wail switch as well as to closing of it, and it is intermediately responsive to the solenoid by automatic mechanism.

Holding means is employed to halt the retarded travelling element 13 in any desired limited region within the path of swing, as well as mechanism to release the arm from the holding means. The holding means herein illustrated is in the form of a comb 4), between the teeth 41 of which the arm may be positioned. By this arrangement each inter-tooth space is made a limited regi-on or a station or position for the arm, and the iineness and length of the comb determine the number of such stations. In the forward motion of the arm 13 it is desired that tne comb be ineilective to hold the arm in any of said stations. In the absence of special means to remove the teeth of the comb during forward motion, there is provided for the engaging parts a structure which permits relative motion between the arm and the comb in but one direction. By means of such a particular structure the arm may move forward over the teeth with a ratchetdike motion. The end of the arm 13 carries a hinged member such as the leaf or plate 42 pivoted on the axis 43 and urged into posi tion against the arm i3 by a spring 44. The end of the leaf extends forwardly (in the present instance beyond the end of the arm) in such a relation to the comb teeth that it enters between them. On forward motion it clears the teeth by hinging backward, while on rearward motion it stops in a station by contact with the rearward tooth which defines one side of station.

The comb is moved out of the above described holding relation with the arm when rearward motion of the arm is desired. The required relative motion for effecting this is brought about by a direct movement of the comb teeth away from the arm. Accordingly means is provided for moving the comb itself. The comb is mounted to tilt on axis 45 passing through an arm 46 joined to and also carrying the comb. Arm 46 extends into the region of a cam device associated with the plunger 16 so that when the plunger is in its rearmost position, the comb is tilted out of holding position. In the drawing the comb is to be considered as moving upward ly out of the plane of the drawing to release the arm 13. The cam device is herein shown as comprising an extension arm 48, shown in elevation in Fig. 3, on the plunger, with a cam surface 49 adapted to tilt the comb-mounting arm 46. The cam surface 49 pressing down on the arm 46 (Fig. 3) raises the comb and the teeth become positioned above 'the path of the plate 42. Spring 17 draws the arm 13 slowly backward.

The plunger` detent D, which prevents reciprocation of the plunger, is so arranged that it is ineffective to hold the plunger near the end of the rearward stroke of the travelling element 13. A lug 50 carried by the arm 13 is so arranged that it will move in between the plunger and the detent D. The part so disengaged from the .plunger comprises a sliding and pivoted hooked member 51. The detent end has a hook 52, and the body has a slot 53 along the length of the member in which is enclosed a fdxed pivot pin slidably related to the slot. The hooked end 52 engages the plunger head 19. An anchored spring 55 is attached to the end of the detent member 50 in such a manner that it exerts a rearward pull upon it and also an urge in a direction to hook the plunger. A stop pin 56 limits the motion of the hook. The lug 50 on the arm 13 is shown in Fig. l as holding the detent away from the plunger. In Fig. 2 it is shown in position about to engage the detent to move it out of the way. It will of course be understood that the detent hoo: 52 is in position 522L when it is engaged by lue,r 59 in the rearward motion.

This device is capable of use in a variety of ways. With the adjustment oi the retarding means to slow the motion both forwardly and rearwardly, the following may be accomplished. Eample A.A room equipped with this device set in an electrolier is dark. The control switch 1l is closed by the operator. Lamp A is thus lighted. Lamps G, F, E, D, C and B follow in succession. Thus all the lamps become lighted.

Example A-l (continuing as a part of Escampie A).-The control switch l1 is next opened. All lamps are extinguished. The 13 in the device is slowly returning and it sweeps the secondary snap switches, making audible clicks as they are opened. After one or more clicks are heard, say clicks, the switch 11 is again closed. Lamp A will become lighted, and also those lamps of which the switches have not clicked-off. The number of lamps which are extinguished will correspond to the clicks heard, or x. This action of opening the main circuit to permit switches to open audibly and then closing the circuit may then be repeated beginning as in this example v(A-l) until all the lamps are extinguished. They may be extinguished one at a time with each such opening and closing operation of the main switch until there are none left to be lighted. The device then returns to its initial condition to begin action as in Example A.

Within the device the following actions occur. On closure of the switch 1l the plunger 16 is drawn into the solenoid P, slowly, because of the pushing action on the retarded arm 13. Finger 12 on the arm sweeps past the secondary switches, lighting the lamps. At the end of the forward stroke, the plunger cuts out the solenoid by means of the short-circuiting switch arm 38, and then spring 18 retracts the plunger. The comb or halter 40 prevents the return of the arm 13 under the influence of its return spring 17. The forward position of the lug 50 permits the detent hook 52 to move into position to engage the plunger head 19. On the first rearward stroke the head 19 rides over the cammed hook 52. When the plunger first reaches its rearmost position it will move slide bar 34 so that the switch arm 38 which has already short-circuited the solenoid will open the circuit and re-energize the solenoid to draw the plunger forward. But the detent member 51 at this time has moved into position to prevent completion of the forward stroke and all the action ceases upon engagement of the plunger with the detent. Cam 49 is out of the way of arm 46 and the comb is therefore in its holding position to restrain the return of arm 13.

On extinguishing the lights as above described in Example [1l- 1, the opening of switch 11 permits the plunger to return to rearmost position and this releases the travelling arm 13 from the comb. So long as the switch is opened the plunger remains in the rearmost position, and the comb remains raised, permitting the automatic return of the arm with retarded motion. In its return the arm 13 sweeps the secondary switches and the audible clicks indicate to the operator 'the number of light circuits that have thus been cut out. When the desired number have been cut out, and the switch 11 again closed, the plunger is drawn forward against the detent hook 52. This permits the cam 49 to drop the comb into holding position at the station where the arm 13 has been caught. If it is in the middle of a station it will continue to move until it is obstructed by the rearmost tooth defining the station. However, if the arm 13 is permitted to return to a point where the lug 50 reaches the detent, the device will become positioned to make a complete forward stroke of the plunger as described for initial lighting as in Example A.

Although one depends in Example A-l upon the audible clicks to determine the number of lights to be extinguished, this is by no means a limitation of the usefulness of the device. It results merely from the way in which it is wired and employed. Specifically, it is because the lamps B, C to G are in sub-circuits under absolute control electrically of the primary switch l1, and under the electrical control of the secondary switches, which are mechanically under the control of the primary switch.

In order to control the number of iamps to be lighted it is not necessary to operate exactly as above described in Example A-1. This example merely represents the manner in which the device is used to decrease the number of lights. To increase the number of lights it is not necessary to depend upon audible clicks to determine the operation. Upon initial lighting of the lamps, one may stop the sequential illumination at any desired instant and prevent the lighting of additional lamps, thus:

Eample 13.- The room is dark. Switch 11 is closed by the operator. Lamp A is thus lighted. The remaining lamps become lighted in sequence, one at a time. When a suicient number are lighted, say A, G, F and E, the switch 11 is opened and then closed without delay. This momentary break in the circuit stops the action within the device. During the momentary de-energiaation of the solenoid, the plunger returns to its rearmost position where it is behind the detent hook 52. This momentary break in the circuit by the operator is equivalent to the short-circuiting of the solenoid by the plunger itself at the end oi the forward stroke, as in Example A. The parts are thus positioned as shown Fig. 2. Further action will proceed as described in Example A--l, and lights will be extinguished.

The 'device has other simple uses than those described. Slight changes may b made either in the device or in the circuits depending upon particular circumstances. A number of such variations in construction and in wiring will be described.

In Example A, the switch ll has been referred to as the means for controlling the secondary switches. In such an arrangement it is the solenoid current that is controlled by switch 1l, and it is only incidental to the wiring that the secondary switches are in sub-circuits under control of switch l1. The very simple addition or" another switch in the lamp A-solenoid circuit at a point beyond the connection leading to the subcircuits gives a different and more advantageous operation. In the drawing the secondary switches are connected to the power line by the wire L through the switch 1l. By inserting a switch X in the line to lamp A beyond the line L from the source l0, the new advantages can be explained. In this modification, switch l1 is to be considered as closed and switch X is the effective control switch, herein termed the auxiliary switch or control to prevent confusion oi terms. t may be considered as a substitute for switch 1l in Examples A and B. with the operations conducted in the same way with the additional advantage that in reducing the number of lights, there is no necessity to use audible clicks as the indicia of cut-out circuits. The lamps remain lighted until the particular circuit is actually cut out by the secondary switch. Thus:

Example C.-Contrcl switch X closed. Lamp A is thus lighted. Lamps G, F, E, D, C and B are then lighted in sequence. This accomplished, the device automatically comes to rest with the lights lighted.

Example C-f-l (Continuing as part of Erample C) The control switch X is opened. Lamp A is thus extinguished, but the other lamps remain lighted for a short time interval after which they go out in succession until all are extinguished.

Ecmplc C-Z (Continuing as a. part of Ercmple C.)-The control switch X is opened until the required number are extinguished (as in Example C-l) whereupon switch X. is again closed. Lamp A will light, and the extinguishing action of the device is arrested. This example may be repeated to extinguish more lamps as desired.

The greater number of houses equipped with clectroliers and wall switches have the single circuit type. The present invention provides a device which rnay be inserted in such electroliers and operated as explained in Examples A, B, and C. The wall switch 11 may be used as the control switch in Examples A and B. To operate under Example C, the auxiliary switch X is placed in the circuit containing the lamp A and the solenoid P. The switch X is preferably associated with the electrolier. It may be an additional switch specially operated by a pull cord from the electrolier, or it may be the socket switch for lamp A. With switch l1 at the wall closed, an operator at the electrolier may manipulate switch X to control the lamps as explained in Example C. This C-type of control by the switch X is one that cannot be effected in a single circuit systeby manipulation of the wall switch il. It is quite convenient that the switch X e located in a table lamp or drop lamp connected into the electrolier. The type of switch X that is provided is prefegably one which is normally closed, that is, the type which is automatically closed when released from the hand oi the operator. =s will compel an initial and iinal control ,from the wall switch ll, and permit intermediate control .rorn the au switch X and also from the switch il, with the added advantage that lamps may be extinguished actually one by one from the switch X.

Fequently it is desirable under present customs to wire sonie electroliers with two circuits and to provide a wall control switch for each circuit. Under such conditions the two wall switches may be considered as the switches ll and X in the above illustrations. Thus they hoth become located in the wall. Because they are at the location switch ll. may be disregarded and switch X used for the control purpose. The only advantage which switch ll would have over switch X in such an arrangement is to extinguish all lamps immediately when it is so de- Switch X would eiect a tuned sequential extinguishrnent. witch X may therefore be considered as the primary switch. "l.L is consideration does not preclude the provision of an auxiliary switch at the electrolier as above described. In e, to be described later in niore detail, there is shown a switch 84 which is such an auxiliary electrolier switch, the double wall switch including one switch '79 for circuit 87, corresponding to the switch ll, and a second switch Sc for the control circuit corresponding to the the switci X. The electrolier switch should of course be of the automatically closing variety to compel initial and final action from the wall location. This is only desirable for reasons of uniformity.

Those systems which have three wires leading to the electrolier may be so wired that the systern operates in the manner or" a single circuit systeni with the additional advantage that the wall switch and the electrolier switch are alternative and equivalent operating controls. This is iliusm trated in Fig. 5 wherein a line wire lili is connected to one side or" the secondarily controlled circuits lOZ. The control device 193 has a travelling element 104 and a power circuit which is connected at one side through the control op 105 to the wire lGl. At the electrolier there is a two-way switch .1.06, to the coininon terminal of which connected the other terminal of the power circuit of the control device, and also the secondary circuits 102. Two wires 107 and 108 connect the electrolier and the wall (or any other remote location) where there is located a second two-way switch 169 with its common terminal connected to the line. This description illustrates the way in which the device is dependent somewhat ior its various degrees of utility upon the type of wiring in the electrolier and the other equipment with which it is combined. If the switch 10S is considered as located apart from the electro-lier, two remote control locations may be used and an auxiliary switch lli) may he einployed at the electrolier.

In Fig 4, two electroliers are represented, each under the control of a single station, as a wall, by one of two switches 79 and 80. Swithch 79 feeds all the circuits, and switch 80 is in the control circuits beyond the switch 79. The control circuit of each electrolier comprises the switch-controlled power wire 81, solenoid P', wire 82, lamp A in line 83, and auxiliary switch 84 in the other power line 85. The other line wire 86 is connected through switch 79 to switch 89. Beyond switch '79 it connects with each of the sub-circuit switches b', c', d', e, and f of lamps B, C, D', E', and F, by means of wire 87. The device of the invention is here represented as enclosed in a round box 88 in which the arm 89, corresponding to arm 13 of Fig 1, revolves about the central axis. The secondary switches are herein disposed about the periphery of the device, and are supplied as additional parts, so that the type of switch, and the location and the spacings of the switches may be varied in accordance with the type of operation desired and the number of switches to be employed. In operating two or more such devices by one control switch it is preferred that the speed of the moving members or control elements bel timed sc as to produce a simultaneous action in the two or more similar electroliers so connected. Any specific desired difference in action or condition in particular' electroliers may be effected by means of its particular auxiliary switch 84.

According to another aspect of the invention, the device may be considered as a station selector". The foregoing description has explained in what manner the motion of the travelling element (arm 13) is controlled to enter any one of the various stations provided (as by the comb) It is of course not essential that the travelling element operate switches as it moves. Such use ofthe finger is but a preferred application to light circuits for homes, etc. The foregoing description has made it clear that arm 13 is arrested in each selected station by a resisting obstruction (herein the teeth 41 of the comb 40). Thus, when at rest, the finger is urged against a tooth by the spring 17. This pressure may be utilized to advantage for any desired purpose.

In the device of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, there is indicated, for the purpose of illustrating this feature, a modified portion of the comb which may be used. Two end teeth 90 and 91 are shown resiliently movable into the dotted line positions indicated. In these positions they are adapted to halt the arm 13 as do the immovable teeth already described. Switches 92 and 93 are associated with these movable teeth and in the present instance are carried by the comb. The teeth are used as operating levers for the switches, thus to control the circuits 94 and 95, not in sequence, but selectively, upon the circumstance that the finger 12 is brought to rest in one of these particular stations.

The switches 92 and 93 are to be distinguished from the series of secondary switches first described in that the latter are operated in sequence as the arm 13 moves, while the former series (92 and 93) are effectively removed from the path of the moving control element during its motion from station to station, and are only operativ-ely related to the control when the control is halted.

The sequential series of switches is thus distinguished from the station operated series, but it is also to be observed that it is possible to use the sequential series as a station series. TheI distinction between the two types is in part due to the inoperative relation which exists between the switch levers and the travelling element during the motion of the latter. Specifically, this results from shifting the comb. Of course, other means may be desired to produce the desired inoperative relation. As to the sequential series it is not necessarily the inoperative relation of the mechanical parts, but also the electrical effect of such operation. By maintaining the mechanical operative relation as described, and cutting off the power to the sequential series, the effect of station operation may be produced. For this purpose there is provided a power switch which is effective to cut off the power to the sequential series when the control element is in motion, and to cut in the power when the motion is arrested. The comb motion is suitable for use in operating such a switch. The comb, therefore, may be arranged for tilting at all times when the control element is in motion in either direction. Switch 96 (Fig. 3) is arranged to be operated by the arm 46 which carries the comb. Arm 97 of the switch is normally in the full line position and is displaced into the dotted line position by tilting the arm. Plunger extension member 48 operating through the comb mounting member 46 effects the operation of the switch arm 97. The cam surface 49 on said extension tilts the arm 46 near the end of the rearward stroke of the plunger. Cam 49 functions only to tilt the comb out of holding position during the rearward motion of the plunger 16 from the full line position (Fig. 2) to the dotted line position. The cam surface 49 preferably is made as one side of a valley or depression in the extension 48 of which valley the other side acts also as a cam 99 during forward motion of the plunger. This action will raise the teeth 41 of the comb out of the path of the plate 42 during the period when the finger 12 sweeps the sequential series of switches. By placing switch 96 in the power line L (indicated by dotted lines in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is an optional switch), the series will be operated mechanically in sequence, but the electrical effect will not result until the arm is halted.

These various illustrations will suflice to show those skilled in the art some of the uses to which the device of this invention may be adapted, in combination with switches, circuits and other controllable means, all for the purpose of a remote control of a plurality of means from a single station through e single circuit.

I claim:

l. In combination, a distributor device having a plurality of outlets, a single circuit control switch to control the current to said device, a control circuit in said device across the terminals thereof, a slow motion control device in said circuit adapted for operation by effectively energizing and deenergizing said control circuit, a plurality of sub-circuits in parallel with said control circuit, and a switch. in each sub-circuit arranged to be operated by said slow motion device to effect a predetermined control of said sub-circuits.

2. In combination a two-circuit distributor device having a plurality of outlets and a single circuit control switch to control the current in one of said circuits as a control circuit, a plurality of switch controlled outlet circuits in parallel in the other circuit of said device, a slow motion control device associated with the device and adapted to be operated by effectively energizing and deenergizing the control circuit, and a switch eration ci said swi .operation by effectively energizing and deenergizn ing said circuit, an auxiliary control switch in said control circuit, a plurality of outlet or subm circuits across the terrninals of said distributor device, and a switch in each oi said sub-circuits arranged to be operated by said slovv motion device to effect a predetermined control of said sub-circuits in response to the primary or auiiiln iary control switci 4. In combination a two-circuit distributor device having at least two outlets, one in each circuit, and a single circuit control switch as in a wall to control the current to one or" said circuits as a control circuit, a slow motion control devic associated with said distributor device and adapted to be operated by eiectively energizing and deenergising said control circuit, and a switch in the other outlet circuit adapted to be operated by said control device.

5. A controllable series oi circuits comprising in combination, a source of electric power', a prt- Inary or control switch in one line irorn said source, a plurality of parallel circuits electrically under control of said switch, one of said circuits being a control circuit including a control device operated by eiectively energizing and deenergizing said control circuit, and others or par-ab lel circuits each having a secondary switch therein arrange to be actuated by device 6. A controllable series ci circuits com risi g in combination, a source of power, a plural y switch controlled circuits connected to said source, one circuit being a control circuit coinn prising a control switch and a control device adapted lor oper tion by eiectively energizing and deenergizing the control circuit, switches in others of said circuits, said control device being operatively associated with switches for cpches to control said circuits in a predetermined manner.

7. A controllable series of circuits comprising in combination, a source ci electric power, a prisource, a plurality ot parallel circuits elec under the control of said switch, one oi said circuits being a control circuit including an .l iary control switch and a control device operated by effectively energizing and deenergizing said control circuit, the remainder ci said parallel circuits having each a secondary switch therein arranged to be actuated by device.

8. A control device having two parallel. cir-- cuits therein, a switch actuator in one of circuits, said actuator including an element movable from an initial position to a fixed position upon establishing a flow of current through said circuit, and movable in substantial interval of time back to initial position upon cessation of effective current in said circuit, includ-cg means to halt the returning element upon r establishing current during said time interv and a switch in the second circuit adapted to be operated by the inoving element.

9. A distributor device having two parallel cir cuits therein, a switch actuator in one of said c' `cuits, said actuator including an element inovable from an initial position to a fixed position upon establishing an effective ilow of current through said circuit, and movable in a substantial tirne interval. back to initial position upon cessation of said initially effective current in said circuit, and including also means to halt the returning element upon re-establishing effective current during said time interval, and switch in the second circuit adapted to be opened by the rturning element, said switch being further arranged to be closed when said element is in said fixed position.

l0. A distributor device having two parallel circuits therein, a switci.- actuator in one of said circuits, said actuator including an element inevable frein an initial position to a tired position upon establishing an eiective ilow of current through said circuit, and movable in a substantial period of time back to initial position upon cessation of said initially eective current in said circuit, and including also ineans to halt the returning eleinent upon le-establishing effective current during said tiene interval, and a switch in the second circuit operatively associated with said actuator to be opened by the retiuning elenient. said switch being arranged to be closed by actuator during inotion from its initial to fixed position.

l1. A distributor device having two parallel circuits therein, a switch actuator in one of said circuits, said actuator including an element movable i'roni an initial position to a fixed position upon establishing an eiective low of current through circuit, and movable bach into ini al position in a substantial interval of time upon cessation of said initially eiective current circuit, and including also means to halt tive current now during said interval of time,

circuits, said actuator including an elenovable into a fixed position from an initial position upon establishing a flow of effective curcuit, and movable baci: into initial position wi an a 'al interval ci time upon cessation of olly effective flow in said one circuit, and g means to halt the returning element upon establishing effective current -dow during interval of time, and a plurality of .switches disposed in the remaining einen-.3s and arranged to be operated in one direcby move-nient ol the element from initial position in the other direction by movement into ii i ial po on, whereby the halting of the elementeiects a halt t' e sequence of operation of said switches.

l. In combination, distributor device with three wires leading to tho saine, a control circuit associated with said d .outer device, a remote control switch of two-way type to establish connection through the switch to either one of a pair of the three w`res, a similar switch assoi and deenergizing of the control circuit, and a plurality of outlet circuits including switches under the control of said device, said circuits and the control circuit all being connected in parallel between the second mentioned two-way switch and the third or free wire leading to the distributor device.

14. In combination, a distributor device with three wires leading to the same, a control circuit associated with said distributor device, a remote control switch of the two-way type to establish connection through the switch to either one of a pair of the three wires, a similar switch associated with the distributor end of said pair of wires to establish connection from the pair of wires to said control crcuit, a control device associated with the distributor device in said control circuit and responsive to effective energizing and deenergizing of the control circuit, and another circuit including a switch under the control of said device, said other circuit and the control circuit being connected in parallel between the second mentioned two-way switch and the third or free wire leading to the distributor device.

15. In combination, a two circuit distributor device having a two-station control in the circuit of said distributor device comprising two separately located two-way switches interconnected by two wires, a control device in an electric control circuit associated with the distributor device, a parallel circuit including a switch under the mechanical control of said control device.

16. In combination, a two circuit distributor device having a two station control in the circuit of said distributor device comprising two separately located two-way switches interconnected by two wires, a control device in an electric control circuit associated with the distributor device, and a plurality of outlet circuits including switches under the mechanical control of said control device.

17. In combination, a two circuit distributor device having a two station control in the circuit of said distributor device comprising two separately located two-way switches interconnected by two wires, a control device in an electric control circuit associated wr'th the distributor device, a parallel circuit including a switch under the mechanical control of the control device, and an auxiliary primary control switch located in the control circuit within the terminals of the parallel circuit.

18. A control device comprising in combination a solenoid, a plunger adapted to be drawn into said solenoid, a resiliently movable member moved against its resilience by said plunger on entering said solenoid, means to retard the motion of said movable element and thereby of the advancing plruiger, means operated by one of said advancing parts automatically to deenergize said solenoid at a predetermined position in the advance, spr'ng means to withdraw said plunger upon deenergization, means adapted to be automatically operated by the withdrawn plunger again to energize the solenoid, whereby the plunger tends again to advance, a detent to limit the second advance of the plunger, means associated with the movable element to render the detent ineffective to limit the iirst advance of the plunger, means to hold the movable element against motion, and means associated with the plunger to render said holding means effective when the plunger is held by said detent.

19. A control device comprising in combination a solenoid, a plunger adapted to be drawn into said solenoid, a resiliently movable member moved against its resilience by said plunger on entering said solenoid, means to retard the advance motion of said movable element and thereby of the advancing plunger, means operated by one of said advancing parts automatically to deenergize said solenoid at a predetermined position in the advance, spring means to withdraw said plunger upon deenergization, means adapted to be automatically operated by the withdrawn plunger again to energize the solenoid, whereby the plunger tends again to advance, a detent to limit the second advance of the plunger, means associated with the movable element to render the detent ineffective to limit the first advance of the plunger, means to hold the movable element against motion, and means associated with the plunger to render said holding means effective when the plunger is held by said detent.

20. A control device comprising in combination a solenoid, a plunger adapted to be drawn into said solenoid, a resiliently movable member moved against its resilience by said plunger on entering said solenoid, means to retard the rearward and advance motion of said movable element and thereby of the advancing plunger, means operated by one of said advancing parts automatically to deenergize said solenoid at a predetermined position in the advance, spring means to withdraw said plunger upon deenergization, means adapted to be automatically operated by the withdrawn plunger again to energize the solenoid, whereby the plunger tends again to advance, a detent to limit the second advance of the plunger, means associated with the movable element to render the detent ineffective to limit the flrst advance of the plunger, means to hold the movable element against motion, and means associated with the plunger to render said holding means effective when the plunger is held by said detent.

21. In a device of the class described, in combination, an electro-magnetic means including an electromagnet, a reciprocal part responsive to said magnet and automatic switch means controlling said magnet and controlled by said part to cause reciprocation of one part thereof upon energizing said means, a movable element, a spring to hold said movable element in a normal position, said element being arranged to be moved against its spring by the rst forward stroke of said reciprocating part, means to retard motion of said element, said part being free to move rapidly in its iirst rearward stroke, a detent to limit the second forward stroke, and means associated with said movable element and said detent to render said detent inoperable to limit the iirst forward stroke.

22. In a device of the class described, in combination, an electro-magnetic means including an electromagnet, a reciprocal part responsive to said magnet and automatic switch means controlling said magnet and controlled by said part to cause reciprocation of one part thereof upon energizing said means, a movable element, a. spring to hold said movable element in a normal position, said element being arranged to be moved against its spring by the iirst forward stroke of said reciprocating part, means to retard motion of said element, said part being free to move rapidly in its first rearward stroke, a detent to limit the second forward stroke, and means associated with said movable element and said detent to render said detent inoperable to limit the first forward stroke, and means associated with said movable element to move said detent out of holding position on return of the element toward normal position.

23. In a device of the class described, in combination, a reciprocable electro-magnetically actuated member, a slow-rnotion movable element adapted to be moved out of normal position by advance of said member, a spring tending to hold said element in normal position, a detent, and means controlled by the position of the movable element arranged to move the detent whereby the detent is adapted to limit advance of said member singly and to permit advance of the member and the element together.

24. In a device of the class described, in combination, a reciprocable electro-magnetically actuated member, a slow-motion movable element adapted to be moved out of normal position by advance of said member, a spring tending to hold said element in normal position, a detent, and means controlled by the position of the movable element arranged to move the detent whereby the detent is adapted to limit advance of said member singly and to permit advance of the member and the element together, and means to halt said element against motion by said spring, said means being operatively associated with said reciprocal member effectively to halt said element when the detent holds the member.

25. In a device of the character described a control element mounted to move over a prescribed path, means to retard the movement thereof, means to move said element from normal position, a spring to return said element to normal position, means to halt said element in its motion, electrically operated means to advance said element from normal position and to hold said element against return upon energization of said same means, said electrically operated means being operatively associated with said halting means to render the latter ineffective, whereby during deenergization said halting means permits return of said element toward normal po sition.

26. In a device of the character described, a control element mounted to move over a prescribed path, means to retard the movement thereof, halting means for said element, electri cally operated means adapted upon energization to move said element against a holding force into a position from which it is adapted to return slowly, said electrically operated means including means effective upon energization thereof following an action of deenergization to render said halting means effective on said control element, and to render said halting means ineffective during deenergization.

27. A control device comprising in combination, an electro-magnetically operated device including an electromagnet, a reciprocal part responsive to said magnet and automatic switch means controlling said magnet and controlled by said part to cause reciprocation of said part upon continued energization of said device, means to prevent reciprocation of said part and to limit the actuated stroke of said part, a control element adapted to be moved by and to follow said part in its reciprocation, means to retard said element whereby to make a slower return stroke than said reciprocable part, and means associated with said element and said preventing means to render the latter ineiective when said element and said part move together.

28. A control device comprising in combination, an electro-magnetically operated device including an electromagnet, a reciprocal part responsive to said magnet and automatic switch means controlling said magnet and controlled by said part to cause reciprocation of said part upon continued energization of said device, means to prevent reciprocation of said part and to limit the actuated stroke of said part, a control element adapted to be moved by and to follow said part in its reciprocation, means to retard said element whereby to make a slower return stroke than said reciprocable part, means associated with said element and said preventing means to render the latter ineifective when said element and said part move together, and means to hold said control element in a fixed position when said preventing means is effective to prevent reciprocation.

29. In combination a control device having at least two outlets and circuits therefor and a single control switch to control the current to said distributor device, a slow motion self-stopping control device having a moving part connected into one of said outlet circuits forming thereby a control circuit, said control device having a part adapted for motion in operation by the acts of either energizing or deenergizing the control circuit, and a secondary switch to control the current to the other outlet circuit arranged to be operated by the moving part of said control device.

30. In combination a distributor device having at least two outlets and circuits therefor and a single control switch to control the current to said distributor device, a slow motion self-stopping control device having a moving part connected into one of said outlet circuits forming thereby a control circuit, said control device having a part adapted for motion in operation by the acts of either energizing or deenergizing the control circuit, an auxiliary switch in said control circuit, and a secondary switch to control the current to the other outlet circuit arranged to be operated by the moving part of said control device.

31. A distributor device containing a plurality of circuits connected in parallel, switches in each of said circuits for opening and closing each of said circuits, an additional control circuit in parallel with said other circuits, and means in said control circuit adapted to operate said switches in succession in response to the initial flow of current and upon cessation of current in the circuit containing said control device.

32. A distributor device containing a plurality of circuits connected in parallel, audible switches in each of said circuits for opening and closing each of said circuits, an additional control circuit in parallel with said other circuits, and means in said control circuit adapted to operate said switches in succession in response to the initial ilow of current and upon cessation of current in the circuit containing said control device.

W. BARTLETT JONES. 

